This article provides a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Christmas turkey. The ingredients include a whole turkey, softened butter, dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The turkey is prepared by removing the giblets and neck, then rinsing it and patting it dry. The butter mixture is spread under the skin and over the outside of the turkey. Stuffing is optional, and the turkey is roasted in the oven for 2-2 1/2 hours, depending on the size. After roasting, the turkey is allowed to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving and serving.
How to Make the Perfect Christmas Turkey: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey, thawed (12-16 pounds)
- 1 stick of butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F and make sure your oven racks are positioned to accommodate your turkey in the center of the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the turkey
- Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity of the turkey and set them aside.
- Rinse the turkey both inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey with salt and pepper on the inside and outside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, dried sage, dried thyme, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper until well combined.
- Use your hands to loosen the skin over the breast meat and spread half of the butter mixture under the skin. Spread the remaining butter mixture over the outside of the turkey.
Step 3: Stuff the turkey (optional)
If you choose to stuff your turkey, do it just before placing it in the oven.
- Scoop your stuffing (recipe of your choosing) into the turkey’s cavity until it’s about 2/3 full.
- Tuck the turkey’s legs and wings under the body.
- Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together.
Step 4: Roast the turkey
Place the turkey, breast-side up, on a rack in a roasting pan. If you choose, add some chopped carrots and celery to the bottom of the roasting pan to flavor the drippings for your gravy.
- Cover the turkey with a piece of aluminum foil, tenting it loosely over the bird to create a “roof”.
- Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for 2-2 1/2 hours, depending on the size of the turkey.
- After 2 hours, remove the foil from the turkey and continue to roast the turkey for another 30-60 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crisp.
- Test the doneness of the turkey by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch the bone. The turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Let the turkey rest
Remove the turkey from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
Step 6: Carve the turkey
Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides, gravy, and cranberry sauce.
Conclusion:
Making the perfect Christmas turkey doesn’t have to be difficult. With these simple steps and ingredients, you can cook a juicy and delicious turkey that will be a showstopper at your Christmas dinner!